SHANGHAI, China – December 4, 2025 – China Eastern Airlines today made aviation history as its inaugural flight connecting Shanghai (PVG) and Buenos Aires (EZE) via Auckland, New Zealand (AKL), took to the skies. At a monumental distance of nearly 20,000 kilometers, this new route officially becomes the longest commercial flight in the world.
The journey covers an astonishing 19,631 kilometers, with the total travel time from Shanghai to Buenos Aires estimated at 25 hours and 30 minutes. The return journey is expected to be even longer up to 27 hours due to prevailing head winds encountered across the Pacific.
The Route and Aircraft
The ultra-long-haul flight is being operated by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, known for its range and efficiency, which is essential for such an ambitious schedule.
The itinerary includes a necessary two-hour technical stopover in Auckland, New Zealand. This layover allows for crew changes, refueling, and essential servicing before the aircraft continues its final leg across the vast South Pacific Ocean to Argentina.
Significance of the Connection
The inauguration of this route marks a strategic expansion for China Eastern, solidifying its position in the global long-haul market and addressing growing demand for travel and trade between China and Latin America.
For travelers, while the journey is long, it offers a direct, single-airline service between Shanghai and Buenos Aires, eliminating the need for complex transfers and multiple layovers typical of trans-Pacific travel to South America.
The successful launch of this route pushes the boundaries of commercial aviation and demonstrates the capabilities of modern aircraft like the Boeing 777-300ER in conquering the most challenging distances on the planet.
This marathon connection will operate twice per week, providing a critical new air link between two major economic powerhouses in Asia and South America.
